What are the 7 steps of CPR, and why is each important?

CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation) is an emergency life-saving procedure used when someone's heartbeat or breathing stops. It involves chest compressions and rescue breaths to restore circulation and oxygen to vital organs.

The 7 steps of CPR are as follows:

1. Check for Responsiveness

   • Importance: Ensures the person is unconscious and needs help. Without this step, you may unnecessarily perform CPR on someone conscious and breathing.

2. Call for Help

   • Importance: Summoning emergency medical professionals ensures advanced care arrives quickly. This step also alerts bystanders to assist or provide resources like an AED (Automated External Defibrillator).

3. Open the Airway

   • Importance: Clears any obstructions, such as the tongue or fluids, that might block airflow to the lungs. Proper airway management is crucial for effective breathing.

4. Check for Breathing

   • Importance: Determines if the person is breathing normally. If not, CPR is needed to supply oxygen to the brain and vital organs.

5. Start Chest Compressions

   • Importance: Helps maintain blood circulation by manually pumping the heart. Compressions provide oxygenated blood to the brain and other organs, preventing further damage.

6. Give Rescue Breaths

   • Importance: Provides oxygen to the lungs and heart. This is especially crucial if the person's heart has stopped beating, as they still need oxygen to function.

7. Continue CPR Until Help Arrives

   • Importance: Ongoing chest compressions and rescue breaths are needed to keep the blood and oxygen circulating until professional help or an AED can take over.

Each step in CPR is important for ensuring the best chance of survival by maintaining vital blood flow and oxygen levels until advanced medical care is available. Learn how to save lives with certified CPR training at O.F.C.C. Trainings today!